Flowers look fantastic in weddings, but they cost a lot of money. In addition, some venues restrict the use of flowers or petals.
If you can’t use flowers or you don’t love the idea of spending thousands of dollars on them, there are alternatives you can use at your wedding.
Some options can be expensive, but some alternatives can make your wedding look incredible without breaking the bank.
Here are 7 of the best cost-effective alternatives for flowers at your wedding. Take a look and see if they work for you!
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1. Feathers
Feathers are a fun alternative to flowers. Like flowers, feathers come in a variety of colors.
You can decorate your tables with feathers or give them to your flower girls to toss down the aisle. Since feathers fall slowly, they can make your wedding look like a fairy tale.
Feathers are terrific for venues that don’t allow flowers.
2. Candles
Candles are another excellent option for people looking for something different and more cost-effective than flowers.
You can line your aisles with candles placed inside glass lanterns, and if your venue allows, you can light them for a magical wedding setting.
Candles also work very well as table centerpieces. Buy candles in different sizes and then cluster them together in the center of your table.
3. Autumn Leaves
If your wedding is in autumn, take advantage of the season. Go outside and gather some colorful leaves to use instead of flowers.
You’ll have to time things right to guarantee the leaves are still in good shape for your ceremony.
Flower girls can use these leaves to decorate the aisle as they walk down. You can also decorate the aisle with them.
4. Pinecones
A cheap option, though a more time-intensive one, is to use pinecones. Gather them outside from pine trees to use at your wedding.
Keep in mind this may not be the best option for flower girls. Pinecones are a tripping hazard, and you don’t want anyone falling at your wedding.
Instead, use the pinecones as table decorations and in common areas. You can also use them on the wedding cake table or as wreaths in entryways.
5. Glitter Shapes
Glitter is another popular alternative to flowers at weddings. Glitter is much more affordable than flowers, and it can add some terrific color to your wedding.
Your flower girls can hold baskets full of glitter hearts or stars, and you can decorate tables with different glitter shapes.
You can find different glitter shapes at any crafting store near you. Buy them in bulk to save even more money.
6. Artificial Flowers
If you don’t love the idea of spending a lot of money on real flowers, you can choose artificial flowers.
There are great imitation flowers that look and feel just like real flowers. From a distance, guests may not even notice the flowers aren’t real.
Another benefit of artificial flowers is that you can sell them after your wedding or reuse them for other events. This will help you save even more money in the future.
7. Bubbles
Bubbles are a fun alternative to flowers at a wedding, especially if you want to involve your guests.
Ask your guests to blow bubbles as you walk down the aisle, or even during your send-off when the reception is over.
Flower Alternatives for Bridesmaids
We’ve discussed alternatives for flower girls and general decorations, but what about bridesmaids?
Traditionally, bridesmaids hold small bouquets when they walk down the aisle or stand for pictures. However, you can choose different items or have them not hold anything at all.
One popular option is to give your bridesmaids pinwheels that spin with the wind.
These are perfect for outdoor or beach weddings, and you can find pinwheels that match your wedding colors.
How to Save Money on Wedding Flowers
What if you really want flowers but want to make them more affordable?
Here are some things to try:
- Buy in-season flowers – You can find cheaper flowers that are more common at certain times of the year.
- Buy local – Look for flowers that are more common in your area. Don’t try to buy rare Thai orchids for your wedding when local daisies will work just fine.
- Price shop – Call different florists to find the best possible price.
- Make your own bouquets – Buy your flowers in bulk and enlist your family and bridesmaids to make bouquets, instead of paying a florist.
Final Thoughts
Flowers are a lovely wedding decoration. They smell great and add to the overall feeling at any wedding.
However, one of the main drawbacks is their cost. Use the above alternatives and tips to save money and still make your wedding look fantastic.